How to Get Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets in March 2024

Are you looking to get a free 5G Government Phones and tablets? If yes, then you have stumbled upon the right article.

Many service providers are now switching their network to 5G as it provides a faster network connection, but the cost of 5G smartphones is very high, and not everyone can afford them.

As someone who came from a low-income family background and wanted for a long time to get his hands on a brand new 5G phone, and finally got one from the government assistance program.

Although the process was a bit tricky, there was even a time when my application got rejected due to a slight mistake on my application form.

However, I didn’t give up and started my application again, carefully filling out the application form and attaching documents where required.

I finally got accepted, and my free 5G government phone was delivered in a week.

In this article, I have shared my personal experience of applying for free government phones and tablets.

I have also shared some necessary information about these government assistance programs, such as their eligibility criteria, documents, and the application process.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Understanding the Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets Program

To bridge the digital gap, the government offers free phones & Tablets with free monthly data. These benefits are offered through the Federal Communications Commission FCC Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program ACP.

The Lifeline program was started in 1985 by the federal government to provide a $9.25 discount on monthly data plans, this discount is even higher on tribal lands, ranging up to $34.25.

ACP is the latest program that replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program as a permanent solution. It offers discounts of up to $30 on nontribal land and $75 on tribal lands for monthly wireless services.

In addition, it offers a $100 ACP discount to purchase a free 5G government tablet and a phone. However, customers must make a co-pay between $10 and $50.

How to Get Free 5g Government Phones and Tablets in March 2024

The US government is giving people free 5G phones, tablets, and cell phone service as part of a larger effort to encourage the adoption of 5G technology. The goal is to get as many people using 5G as possible so that the country can reap the benefits of this new wireless standard

The government provides free 5G phones, such as a “free Government iPhone” or a “Government Samsung Phone,” to eligible low-income residents through its partnerships with major wireless carriers and government phone programs.

By visiting the program’s official website, you can find a list of local providers participating in the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program.

Those who qualify can get a free 5G phone, tablets, and additional perks, such as free data, talk time, and more.

Here are the general steps you need to follow.

• Check if you qualify: See if you fit the rules for getting help. This usually means your income is low, or you get benefits like food stamps.
• Find a program: Look for government programs like Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that offer free or low-cost phones and tablets.
• Apply: Fill out a form for the program you found. You might need to show papers that prove you qualify.
• Choose a provider: Pick a phone or internet company that works with the government program.
• Get your device: After you’re approved, the company will tell you how to get your phone or tablet.

How to Qualify for a Free Government 5G Phones & Tablet?

Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria set by the government and is able to provide the supporting documents proving their eligibility usually qualifies for the free government 5G phone & tablet.

But before you apply, make sure you are 18 years or older and are a permanent resident of the state you are applying from.

Here are the detailed eligibility prerequisites and documents required to get a free or discounted 5G phone or a tablet from the government –

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is based on low income or participation in government assistance programs.

Income Eligibility

• For Lifeline, your household income should be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• For ACP, your annual household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Government Program Participation

The federal and state governments provide assistance programs for low-income households, and you may be eligible for free 5G government phones through one of the following government aid programs –

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI.)
• Medicaid
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

Tribal Program Participation

The government will provide free 5G phones if you meet specific conditions and live on tribal lands. Here are several programs through which you might be able to get a free 5G government phone –

• Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
• Tribal Head Start
• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

Documents Required

You will also be required to prove your eligibility for the program through which you apply for the free 5G government phones and tablets. You will need legal, valid government documents verifying your claim.

Here is the list of the accepted documents based on your eligibility.

Income documents

If you apply for the Lifeline or ACP on the basis of your low income, you must prove that your income falls below the prescribed limit for the program.

You can check for these documents to substantiate your income.

• Income statement from your current employer
• Child support award
• Divorce decree
• Previous year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return
• Unemployment or worker’s compensation statements of benefits
• Social security statement of benefits
• Veterans Administration statement of benefits
• Pension/retirement statement of benefits

Program documents

If you qualify by participating in other eligible government support programs, you should provide any official document to prove your participation.

The accepted documents include the following.

• Benefit award letter
• Benefit verification letter
• Program’s approval letter
• Statement of benefits

General Documents

You may require some additional documents to prove your age, identity, or address. In that case, you must have these important documents while applying for the Lifeline and ACP program.

• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Driving license
• Certificate of U.S. citizenship
• Valid government, military, tribal or state ID
• Green card
• Mortgage or lease statement
• Recent W-2 or tax return
• Utility bill

Additionally, if you apply for free 5G government phones and Tablets as an individual below 18, you must have a document to prove you are an emancipated minor.

How to Apply for Free 5G Government Phones and Tablets

 

In the next sections, I have shared the exact steps to apply for free government 5G Phones and tablets.

Apply for Free Government 5G Phones

Here are the steps to apply for a free 5G government phone program.

• First of all, visit the National Verifier’s website and verify if you are eligible for Lifeline and ACP programs.
• If yes, visit the Lifeline program’s official website. You can use this URL – https://nv.fcc.gov/lifeline?ln=RW5nbGlzaA%3D%3D

• Select your state from the drop-down list and click the Get Started button.
• Fill in all of the information and click on the Next button.
• Submit all of the necessary documents.
• Select a service provider participating in the Lifeline program and offering free 5G phones.
• Submit your application.

Alternatively, you can fill out an offline Lifeline application form at “lifelinesupport.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/get-lifeline/LI_Application_NVstates.pdf ” and attach copies of your eligibility documents.

Once done, send your application to USAC, Lifeline Support Centre, P.O Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 18773.

That’s it. This is how you can easily apply for free 5G government phones.

Apply for Free Government 5G Tablets

If, instead of a 5G phone, you want a 5G tablet, here are the steps you need to follow.

• First, visit the official website of the Affordable Connectivity program at “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/.” As it’s the only government program that offers free tablets.

• Alternatively you can also visit the official website of your chooser service provider and apply for ACP through them.
• Click on Apply now.
• Fill out the free government 5G tablet form and attach scanned copies of your eligibility documents.

• Submit and wait for approval.

Alternatively, you can also fill out an offline application form at “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/ACP-Application-Form-English.pdf” and a household worksheet form “https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/wp-content/uploads/lifeline/images/ACP-Household-Worksheet-English.pdf.”

Attach photocopies of your documents and send them to ACP Support Center, P.O Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA, 18773.

Note: Please note that from February 7, 2024, the ACP program has stopped taking any applications.

Program that Provides Free 5G Phones & Tablets to Low-income

The Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers 5G government phones to eligible low-income individuals to enhance their access to advanced communication technology

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program provides free or discounted phones to low-income individuals, helping ensure access to essential communication tools. Applicants must meet income criteria or participate in certain assistance programs like Medicaid or SNAP.

Top 5 Free 5G Government Phone and Tablet Providers with Unlimited Data

Below, we have covered some of the best providers offering free government phone programs to low-income families. Through participating providers, you can get free 5G phones from the government.

StandUp Wireless

Standup Wireless is another carrier that provides prepaid wireless services under the Lifeline and ACP program. You can expect a free 5G phone or tablet from this provider.

Currently, they are only offering a StandUp Wireless free government tablet, but there is also a high chance that they will provide a free phone in the near future.

If eligible, you can find out whether the provider offers its benefits in your state and visit “standupwireless.com” to apply for a free 5G phone or a tablet.

Qlink wireless

Q Link Wireless is a telecommunications company headquartered in Dania, Florida, in the United States. It provides free wireless services to Lifeline and ACP-eligible households.

Our recent research shows that they only offer their customers Qlink Wireless free government tablets. However, You can get free government 5G phones and tablets from this provider based on availability.

You can visit their official website to enroll in their services at “www.qlinkwireless.com.” Here are the steps to do so.

• Visit Qlink Wireless’s official website at “https://qlinkwireless.com/”
• Enter your Zip Code and Email address.
• Complete the application form and upload eligibility documents.
• Apply and Wait for approval.

Cintex Wireless

 

Cintex Wireless is an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) that offers Lifeline and ACP service to qualified low-income people.

It provides Cintex Wireless free phone and Cintex Wireless free tablet with free phone services through its Lifeline +ACP combo plan.

You can get free government 5G phones and tablets from Cintex Wireless if the device is available during your application.

Currently, they are offering free government Samsung Galaxy models such as A51, A10E, etc., which are 5G phones. As for tablets, they are offering a Cintex Table at a price of $10.1.

You can apply for Cintex Wireless if eligible by following the steps below.

• To apply, visit “https://apply.cintexwireless.com/apply”
• Enter your Zip code and click on “Apply Now.”
• Choose your plan and Fill out the application form.
• Upload eligibility documents.
• Submit and wait for approval.

SafeLink Wireless

SafeLink Wireless is a Lifeline provider offering free Safelink 5G government phones to individuals who qualify.

Upon completing the Safelink application process for the Lifeline program, you can get a free phone and receive 350 free minutes every month. However, if you need unlimited monthly phone service, check if you qualify for the Lifeline+ACP combo plan.

Assurance Wireless

Assurance Wireless also participates in the federal government’s Lifeline program, providing qualifying customers with free Android mobile phones and plans.

Once you apply for Assurance Wireless, you are given the option of selecting a free Assurance Wireless phone, and you’ll also get a free SIM card along with Assurance Wireless free internet and phone services such as Unlimited Talk and Text.

Here are the steps you need to follow.

• Visit the official website of Assurance Wireless and click on “Apply Now.”
• Fill out the application form and attach the necessary documents.
• Submit and wait for approval.

AirTalk Wireless

 

Airtalk Wireless free government smartphones with free monthly phone services are available through its Lifeline +ACP Combo Plans.

You can also get 5G phones and tablets through this combo deal if you are eligible and if 5G devices are available at the time of your application.

We can say surely that this provider offers a 5G smartphone, as they are one of the biggest free government iPhone providers in the United States.

You can learn more and apply for the provider’s Lifeline and ACP benefits at its official website at “airtalkwireless.com.” Here are the steps to do so.

• Visit the official website of AirTalk Wireless and click on “Apply.”
• Enter your zip code and complete the application form.
• Make sure to choose the Lifeline+ACP combo plan.
• Upload the eligibility documents.
• Apply and wait for approval.

Top Free 5G Phones & Tablets You Get From The Government

The providers do not reveal their phone models through the Lifeline or ACP programs. Upon qualifying for these programs, the phone you receive depends on factors such as availability at the time of your application, your state of residence, the provider, etc.

As such, it is difficult to specify the exact phone models you get under these programs. However, according to the sources, you can get one of the following 5G phones and tablets from the government for free or at a discounted price.

Free 5G Government Phones Model

Here are the Top free 5G Government phones you can expect via the free Government phone program:

iPhone 13 Pro Max

The iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR10 and Dolby Vision, complemented by a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. It’s powered by the A15 Bionic chip, which includes a 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, ensuring top-notch performance.

The device boasts a triple-camera setup consisting of 12 MP wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses, enhanced with Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Apple ProRAW capabilities. Additionally, it supports 5G connectivity, offering faster download and streaming speeds.

Samsung Galaxy S20

The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a dynamic 6.2-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring vibrant and smooth visuals. Depending on the region, it’s powered by the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 chipset. The device includes a versatile triple-camera system for high-quality photography.

Samsung Galaxy A32

The Samsung Galaxy A32 boasts a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display and is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G80 processor. It comes with a quad-camera setup, including a 64 MP main sensor, offering a solid photography experience.

Motorola Edge+

Motorola Edge+ stands out with its 6.7-inch Endless Edge display and Snapdragon 865 processor. It offers a 108 MP primary camera, delivering stunning photo quality, and supports 5G connectivity.

Sony Xperia 1 II

Sony Xperia 1 II is designed for multimedia enthusiasts, featuring a 6.5-inch 4K HDR OLED display, and is powered by the Snapdragon 865 processor. It has a triple-camera system co-developed with Sony’s Alpha camera engineers.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra showcases a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It includes an advanced camera system with a 108 MP main sensor and is powered by the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 chipset.

Google Pixel 4A 5G

Google Pixel 4A 5G offers a 6.2-inch OLED display and runs on the Snapdragon 765G chipset. It’s known for its excellent camera capabilities, including a 12.2 MP dual-pixel main camera, and it supports 5G connectivity.

Here is a comparison table of free 5G government phones.

Device	Display	Processor	RAM	Storage	Battery	Camera
iPhone 13 Pro Max	6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display	Apple A15 Bionic chip	6GB RAM	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB	4352 mAh	12MP triple-lens rear camera, 12MP front-facing camera
Samsung Galaxy S20	6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display	Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chip	8GB RAM	128GB, 256GB, 512GB	4000 mAh	12MP triple-lens rear camera, 10MP front-facing camera
Samsung Galaxy A32	6.6-inch HD+ Infinity-V display	MediaTek Helio G80 chip	4GB RAM	64GB, 128GB	5000 mAh	48MP quad-lens rear camera, 13MP front-facing camera
Motorola Edge+	6.7-inch OLED display	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip	12GB RAM	128GB, 256GB, 512GB	5000 mAh	50MP triple-lens rear camera, 60MP front-facing camera
Sony Xperia 1 II	6.5-inch OLED display	Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chip	8GB RAM	256GB	4500 mAh	12MP triple-lens rear camera, 8MP front-facing camera
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra	6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip	8GB, 12GB RAM	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB	5000 mAh	108MP quad-lens rear camera, 40MP front-facing camera
Google Pixel 4A 5G	6.2-inch OLED display	Google Tensor chip	6GB RAM	128GB	3885 mAh	12.2MP dual-lens rear camera, 8MP front-facing camera

Free 5G Government Tablet Models

Here are a few free 5G government tablet models you can recieve.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 5G

This is a smaller tablet that connects to 5G networks. It’s made by Samsung and is good for basic tasks and some games.

Apple iPad Air (2020)

The iPad Air from 2020 is a thin and light tablet from Apple. It’s powerful and can be used for drawing, working, and watching videos.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus

This is a budget-friendly tablet from Amazon. It has a big 10-inch screen and can be used for reading, watching movies, and browsing the web.

Lenovo Tab P11 Plus

Lenovo’s Tab P11 Plus is a tablet good for both work and play. It has a nice screen and speakers, making it great for watching shows and doing tasks.

TCL Tab 10 5G

This tablet from TCL can connect to 5G networks. It’s designed for streaming videos and staying connected on the go.

Alcatel A7

The Alcatel A7 is a budget-friendly tablet. It’s good for basic tasks like web browsing and watching videos.

Tracfone Alcatel A3 5G

This is a simple tablet that works with Tracfone’s service. It can connect to 5G, making it good for browsing the internet and using apps.

ZTE ZPad 11

The ZTE ZPad 11 is a tablet with a big screen. It’s good for watching movies and doing work on a larger display.

Coolpad Max 5G

This is a 5G tablet from Coolpad. It’s designed for fast internet speeds and can be used for streaming, gaming, and more.

Feature	Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 5G	Apple iPad Air (2020)	TCL Tab 10 5G	Coolpad Max 5G	Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus
Display	10.25-inch TFT LCD	10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD	10.1-inch IPS LCD	10.1-inch IPS LCD	10.1-inch IPS LCD
Processor	MediaTek Helio G80	Apple A14 Bionic	MediaTek Dimensity 720	MediaTek Dimensity 800	MediaTek Helio P60
RAM	3GB	3GB	6GB	6GB	4GB
Storage	32GB	64GB	64GB	128GB	64GB
Rear Camera	8MP	12MP	8MP	48MP	5MP
Front Camera	5MP	7MP	5MP	8MP	2MP
Battery	5100mAh	7600mAh	8000mAh	8000mAh	7000mAh
Operating System	Android 11	iPadOS 14	Android 11	Android 11	Fire OS 7

Benefits Of Free 5G Government Phones And Tablets

While free 5G government phones and tablets are a benefit, you can have these additional benefits with it.

Affordability

The free 5G government phones and tablets help you save money that you would have otherwise used to purchase a brand-new phone.

Beneficial to low-earners

The free phone is especially beneficial to low-income people who can not pay for it. You can enjoy the discounted phone services with a free phone.

Enjoy online services

The free phone or tablet allows you to apply for online jobs, access emergency health care services, get online educational sources, or shop online.

Entertainment

You can have unlimited entertainment by watching videos, movies, or playing games.

High-speed Internet

With 5G smartphones, you can get access to a high-speed free government 5G internet, which is again useful in many ways. Besides, you get to enjoy the features of a 5G phone for free.

FAQs About Free Government 5g Smartphones

Why is the government offering 5G phones?

Compared to previous generations of mobile technology, 5G has numerous advantages. People will have faster access to information and programs with the introduction of 5G networks than with 4G. In addition, 5G networks outperform their predecessor in dependability and coverage.

How Much will the government pay for 5G phones?

The cost of a 5G phone will vary depending on its make and model. However, eligible citizens are expected to receive financial assistance to offset the cost of these phones.

Can I get a free 5G Government phone if I am unemployed?

Yes, you can get a free Government phone for unemployed workers under the same scheme.

Do I need to undergo the Lifeline recertification process?

Yes. The Lifeline recertification process is necessary to keep enjoying Lifeline’s services.

What are the Best free 5g Government Phones Samsung?

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, S20, and S10 5G are the most suitable 5G smartphones by Samsung.

Can Existing Free 4G Phones Be Upgraded to 5G?

Existing 4G phones from government programs like Lifeline can’t be automatically upgraded to 5G. To access 5G, a specific 5G-enabled device is needed. If you have a 4G phone from these programs and want a 5G phone, you might need to cover the upgrade costs yourself, as the program typically offers basic models and not the latest 5G phones.

Closing Comments

A detailed article covers free 5G government phones & tablets, how to apply, available models, service providers, and more. We tried to cover everything about the topic. However, if you have any questions, please shoot them in the comment section below. Our team will try to respond ASAP.